Brendan Rodgers admits he has overused teenager Raheem Sterling

Brendan Rodgers admits Liverpool’s limited squad is starting to feel the effects of a busy season – with teenager Raheem Sterling the most in need of a rest.

Having seen their way through the early stages of the Europa League, the Reds have already played 29 games in all competitions so far this campaign. With Rodgers’ minimal choices in attack Sterling has featured in 26 of those matches.

Rodgers knows he has asked a lot of the 17-year-old but points out his hands are tied with the players he has available.

‘There is no doubt Raheem is one who does need that breather,’ he said. ‘I’ve thought about it over the past couple of weeks.

‘In order to do that you need to have that depth to take him out and put somebody else in. That’s something I’m thinking about – who to put in. He’s a naturally very, very fit boy but he needs that mental rest as well.

‘For the kid, it’s about efficiency as well. Tactically he’s still very young. That time will come, and he will get the breather soon enough.’

Liverpool’s disappointing 3-1 defeat to Aston Villa at Anfield on Saturday highlighted to Rodgers the need to freshen up his squad in January – with midfielder Joe Allen another who is starting to look jaded.

‘There is no doubt, after working with Joe and seeing him, he’s another one,’ said Rodgers.

‘If we’re honest, there are a few who could do with that breather, especially mentally. It’s something for sure I need to have a wee look at.’